Outformation

Atlanta’s jam/Southern rock band, Outformation, will make a rare appearance in Fargo next Tuesday. The high-energy five-piece band is touring in support of their kick-butt album, “Traveler’s Rest,” that they released last year. Named the Best New Band by Honest Tune Magazine, Outformation is the brainchild of Sam Holt (the guitar tech for Widespread Panic’s Michael Houser) and New Orleans drummer/singer Lee Schwartz.
Forming in 2002, they toured, honing songs until they went into the studio and produced their first full-length CD, “Tennessee Before Daylight,” in 2005. Their sound was so infectious, it was no wonder these Southern boys soon found themselves at SXSW, Bonnaroo, High Sierra, Wakarusa, Allgood, Hookahville, and Magnoliafest. They appeared at 10KLF last year to wildly adoring fans.
“Traveler’s Rest,” showcases their two newest additions to the band-and two members you should pay special attention to when you see them in Fargo.
They are percussionist Jeff Lane and keyboard virtuoso Grady Upchurch. This album also features collaboration on the title cut with Widespread Panic and Mickey Raphael’s harmonica on “Winds.” Raphael plays with Willie Nelson’s Family Band.
Outformation’s new sound is full-bodied and multi-layered, crossing into funk and jazz, with players who are mature and extremely dedicated. But not to worry, strains of the South are still very much present, giving what Outformation does a natural warmth and a deep-in-the-pocket rock groove.
Last year, Sam Holt left Widespread Panic to devote his full attention to Outformation. That move has been a boon to the band, allowing them to focus their energies onto the exploration and expansion of their new sound. They have honed their live concerts to a bootie-moving, shoulder-shimming, soul experience. The jams are long and intricate. The lyrics and vocals are clever and well-executed. The percussion is colorful and poly-rhythmic. The guitar and bass are spot on. But it’s the organ/key work that stirs up the crowds.
No matter how good this latest album is, Outformation’s live shows are not to be missed. You owe it to yourself to catch the grooves of Outformation before they head back down South.
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If You Go

Who: Outformation
When: Tuesday, Sept. 9
Where: The Aquarium
Info: 701.235-5913